Easy Dinner Recipe with Shredded Chicken in 25 Minutes!

Name: Easy Dinner Recipe with Shredded Chicken in 25 Minutes!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup diced onions; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup salsa; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese; Fresh cilantro for garnish

June 13, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Hey there, friend! If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that makes weeknight cooking a breeze, you’ve landed in the right spot! This easy dinner recipe with shredded chicken is not only a cinch to whip up, but it’s also bursting with vibrant flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Seriously, it’s like a fiesta in a skillet!

easy dinner recipe with shredded chicken - detail 1

Picture this: tender, juicy shredded chicken mingling with colorful bell peppers, sweet corn, and hearty black beans, all brought together with zesty salsa and a sprinkle of spices. It’s a delightful mix that’s both comforting and exciting. Trust me, this is one of those recipes that I often revert to after a long day when I just want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste—whether you want to amp up the spice or throw in a few extra veggies, it’s all about making it your own. Plus, it’s perfect for serving in a cozy tortilla wrap or over a bed of fluffy rice. Honestly, it’s a lifesaver for busy nights, and I can’t wait for you to give it a try! Let’s dive into the ingredients so you can get cooking!

Ingredients List

2 cups cooked shredded chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or simply cook and shred your own chicken breasts.
1 cup diced bell peppers: Feel free to mix colors—red, yellow, and green— for a beautiful presentation and varied flavors.
1 cup diced onions: Yellow onions work best for their sweetness, but you can use red onions for a sharper taste.
1 can (15 oz) black beans: Make sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium and that can taste.
1 cup corn kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn will all do the trick. If using frozen, no need to thaw before adding!
1 cup salsa: Use your favorite type—mild, medium, or spicy—depending on your heat preference.
1 teaspoon cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Adjust based on how much heat you like; this gives a nice kick without being overpowering.
Salt to taste: Always taste your dish as you go! This helps bring all the flavors together.
1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar or a Mexican blend melts wonderfully on top, adding that ooey-gooey goodness we all crave.
Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a burst of freshness to your dish right before serving. It’s optional, but I highly recommend it!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

First things first, let’s get those veggies sizzling! In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, toss in your diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nice and soft. You want them to be tender but still vibrant in color—this is where all the flavor begins!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next up, it’s time to bring everything together. Add your cooked shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt to the skillet. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly. You want to ensure all those ingredients are well-coated with the salsa and spices. Cook this glorious mixture for about 5-7 minutes, just until everything is heated through and those incredible aromas start to fill your kitchen. Seriously, it’s going to smell amazing!

Step 3: Melt Cheese

Now for the best part—cheese! Sprinkle a generous cup of shredded cheese evenly over your chicken and veggie mixture. Then, cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another minute or two. This step is crucial because it allows the cheese to melt perfectly, creating that delightful gooey texture we all crave. Just picture it: warm, melty cheese cascading over all those colorful ingredients!

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once your cheese is all melted and bubbly, it’s time to serve up this delicious creation! You can dish it out in warm tortillas for tasty wraps or over a fluffy bed of rice for a more substantial meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for that extra pop of flavor and color. It makes everything look so inviting! And there you have it, a quick and satisfying meal ready to be devoured. Enjoy every bite, my friend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying fast.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of shredded chicken, zesty salsa, and spices creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Versatile: You can serve it in tortillas for delightful wraps or over rice for a heartier meal. The options are endless!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the black beans and corn, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients—add more veggies, adjust the spice level, or even swap the chicken for beans for a vegetarian twist!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this flavorful dish, making it a hit at the dinner table.
One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in one skillet, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure you nail this easy dinner recipe with shredded chicken! Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your dish and tailor it to your taste:

Spice Adjustments: If you like a little more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when you sauté the vegetables. For a milder version, stick to mild salsa and reduce the chili powder.
Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t have black beans? No problem! You can easily swap them for pinto beans or even chickpeas. And if you’re out of corn, diced zucchini or spinach can work wonders too!
Cheese Choices: While I love cheddar, feel free to experiment with pepper jack for some extra spice or a Mexican blend for a more complex flavor profile. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well!
Meal Prep Friendly: If you’re prepping ahead, you can cook the chicken and chop your veggies in advance. Just combine everything and heat it up when you’re ready to eat!
Serving Ideas: Consider adding toppings like avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten up the flavors. They add a fresh twist that complements the dish beautifully!
Storage Tips: Leftovers are great too! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to whip up a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Trust me, you’ll be the star of dinner time with this one!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up, this easy dinner recipe with shredded chicken is incredibly versatile! Here are some fun variations to try that will keep your taste buds excited:

Different Proteins: While shredded chicken is a classic, you can easily swap it out for cooked shredded beef or pork for a different flavor profile. Even tofu or tempeh can work for a vegetarian option—just ensure to season it well for maximum flavor!
Vegetable Medley: Add in extra veggies to boost nutrition and flavor! Chopped zucchini, diced tomatoes, or even spinach can be great additions. You can toss them in with the onions and bell peppers to sauté them until tender.
Southwestern Twist: For a more Southwestern flair, consider adding diced jalapeños or a can of diced green chiles to the mix. It’ll bring a nice kick! You could also stir in some diced avocado just before serving for a creamy texture.
Spicy Kick: If you’re a spice lover, crank up the heat with additional chili powder, some hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. You’ll get that fiery flavor that’s oh-so-delicious!
Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese! Try crumbled queso fresco for a crumbly texture or pepper jack for some extra spice. You could even mix two types of cheese for a richer flavor.
Global Flavors: Think outside the box by incorporating different cuisines. Add curry powder for an Indian twist, or mix in some soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired dish. The possibilities are endless!
Meal Prep Packs: Consider portioning the mixture into meal prep containers with a side of brown rice or quinoa for an easy grab-and-go lunch option. Just reheat and enjoy throughout the week!

With these variations, you can easily keep this dish fresh and exciting every time you make it. So go ahead, experiment, and make this recipe your own—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! This easy dinner recipe with shredded chicken is not only delicious, but it also packs a nutritious punch. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 cup):

Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g

Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so it’s always a good idea to check your labels. Enjoy knowing that you’re fueling your body with something wholesome and satisfying!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed this delicious easy dinner recipe with shredded chicken, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers! You won’t want to waste a single bite, trust me.

First, let your chicken mixture cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming in your storage container, which can make everything a bit soggy. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh, and it should stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it!

To freeze, portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date, so you know when to enjoy them next!

When you’re ready to reheat your leftovers, there are a couple of methods you can use to ensure they taste just as good as when they were freshly made:

Stovetop: This method is my favorite! Just place the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a bit of extra salsa to keep it moist. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes until it’s heated through. This way, you can keep an eye on it and prevent it from drying out!
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too. Transfer your portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook!

Once it’s heated, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—sometimes, a little extra sprinkle of salt or fresh cilantro can bring it back to life. Enjoy those delicious leftovers, my friend!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shredded chicken?
Absolutely! If you have frozen shredded chicken, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. It works just as well and saves you time!

What if I don’t have black beans?
No worries! You can easily substitute black beans with pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. They’ll still give you that hearty texture and boost of protein!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Just replace the shredded chicken with additional beans, lentils, or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. You can still keep all the wonderful flavors intact!

How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference! If you like it mild, use mild salsa and start with less chili powder. For heat seekers, feel free to add extra spices or some chopped jalapeños.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to sauté the veggies right before you add everything together for the freshest flavors!

What can I serve with this dish?
This easy dinner recipe is delicious on its own or served in warm tortillas or over rice. You can also pair it with a side salad or some guacamole for a complete meal!

How do I store leftovers?
Let the dish cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just be sure to label the containers!

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes! You can combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for about 4-6 hours. This method will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the main ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

How can I make it more filling?
To amp up the heartiness, consider adding more beans, some cooked quinoa, or even diced sweet potatoes to the mix. They’ll add nutritional value and keep you satisfied!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.